Report Suggests Pokémon Go Player Data May Aid Military Drone Navigation
A recent report indicates that data collected from Pokémon Go players, specifically their submitted scans, may be contributing to the development of Visual Positioning Systems (VPS). Niantic Spatial, a spin-off from Niantic, reportedly uses this data for VPS. The report suggests a collaboration between Niantic Spatial and Vantor, a software firm with government connections, potentially leading to these VPS solutions being used for military applications, including drone target acquisition.
A new report has raised concerns that player-submitted data from the popular augmented reality game Pokémon Go may be utilized in the development of Visual Positioning Systems (VPS) for military applications.
The report highlights Niantic Spatial, a spin-off company from Niantic, which is stated to be using Pokémon Go data to develop VPS solutions. Niantic Spatial reportedly has a collaboration with Vantor, a software firm with government connections. The investigation attempts to illustrate how player-submitted scans could have ultimately contributed to VPS solutions intended for military use, potentially aiding in target acquisition for drones.
Pokémon Go, known for its augmented reality gameplay, encouraged players to scan their surroundings as part of the experience. This aspect of the game is central to the re-emerging concerns regarding the real-world impact and usage of player data years after the game's initial popularity.
According to Android Authority, the report re-raises questions about how user data from such widely adopted applications might be employed beyond their original recreational intent.
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